Ministers Announce Funding For Victims And Survivors

In total over 5,000 individuals and families will benefit from the funding package.

The awards will be distributed through a number of schemes operated by the Northern Ireland Memorial Fund and will help address a range of areas of need.

About 2,500 injured/carers will benefit from a payment of £500 towards the cost of a respite break; over 1,000 families will each receive a payment of £250 and almost 1,700 over 60s will receive a payment of £200 to help with cost of living increases, particularly winter heating costs.

Deputy First Minister McGuinness commented: "This funding will help many of the most vulnerable individuals in our society and their families in a practical way. This demonstrates our commitment to making life better for victims and survivors. The new Victims and Survivors strategy, when fully implemented, will see a more focussed, coordinated and needs led approach to how we provide support to victims and survivors."

First Minister Robinson said: "We are aware of how difficult the Christmas period can be for many of those who suffered most as a result of our recent conflict, particularly those who lost a loved one. We are therefore very pleased to be able to provide this substantial support through the Northern Ireland Memorial Fund. It will help ease the burden for many families at this particularly difficult and emotional time."

The Northern Ireland Memorial Fund will be releasing more details shortly about how to apply for support through these schemes.